## Apple’s Lightning to 3.5mm Adapter Fades Into Obsolescence
The seemingly ubiquitous Apple Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter is reaching the end of its lifecycle. Initially introduced in 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, this dongle, which bridged the gap between legacy audio devices and Apple’s newer Lightning connector, is now vanishing from Apple’s online storefront. This echoes the demise of the SuperDrive earlier this year, which similarly saw dwindling availability before its eventual discontinuation.
### A Quiet Exit for a Once-Essential Accessory
Reports indicate the adapter is listed as “sold out” across Apple’s website in the United States and a majority of other regions. A few countries, including France and Scandinavian nations, still show limited stock, but this is likely residual inventory and expected to be depleted soon. This effectively marks the conclusion of the adapter’s eight-year run.
### From Pack-In to Phase-Out
Originally included with the iPhone 7, 8, and X, the adapter became a separate purchase with the iPhone XS and later models. Priced at $9 in the US, it remained available for users clinging to their wired headphones. However, with the transition to USB-C across the iPhone 15 and 16 lineups, and the anticipated discontinuation of the remaining Lightning-port iPhones (14, 14 Plus, and SE) next year, the adapter’s relevance has significantly diminished. Apple already offers a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter for its latest devices, further signaling the Lightning adapter’s obsolescence.
### Embracing the Wireless Future (and USB-C)
While Apple continues to offer wired EarPods with Lightning, USB-C, and 3.5mm connections, the company’s focus clearly lies with its wireless AirPods lineup. The phasing out of the Lightning to 3.5mm adapter underscores Apple’s ongoing transition towards a wireless audio ecosystem and the broader adoption of USB-C technology. This shift leaves users with the choice of embracing wireless audio solutions, utilizing the USB-C adapter, or seeking third-party alternatives for their wired listening needs.
